Do you own a metal garage? Could any renovation work be done on it? Would you like to transform your garage into a comfortable and stylish living space? Then without any further ado, let’s begin.

So, where to get started? The best advice is to start by checking out building codes and permits. Legal trouble might be a pain in the future, so we will remove it immediately. Let’s start with the list once you get legal work out of the way. For convenience, we would divide this list into two categories – need & wish list.

Let’s have a look at both of them below.

NEED

Getting an insulation

This one is a no-miss. Insulation becomes even more critical when planning a metal building for living space. Condensation happens when the temperature outside and inside your metal structure is different. Also, note that steel is a good conductor of heat.

An insulator will seal your metal building home properly. It will prevent the growth of fungus, which may cause allergy symptoms. Ensure your insulator has a high R-value (Tip: Radiant barrier will do the job).

Some of the advantages of insulation that you will have are:

• It will prevent condensation. This, in turn, will resist moisture build-up. No moisture means no rust formation & your metal structure is safe.
• It demotes the growth of mildew and molds.
• You can control your indoor temperature.

Types of insulators that you can choose from:

• Fiberglass
• Loose fill
• Rigid board
• Spray form
• Insulated sandwich panel

“Which type of insulator is suitable for my metal garage?” you might ask. It depends partly on your location and what you will do with your metal home. For the best advice, refer to your metal builder.

Adding utilities

Whether it’s a metal building home or not, electricity and water lines are vital. You will need power sockets to run your appliances like a small fridge, induction gas, or a Wi-Fi router. Similarly, water pipes are necessary for the sink and washroom.

Also Read: MODERN HOUSES WITH BROWN ROOFS

Let’s see what utilities you can add to your new metal-building home.

• Electricity

It is easier than it looks. But first, if you have no experience handling electrical cables, please hire an electrician. But if you can, then let’s move forward.

You will need to plan & lay the conduit. Ensure the total bending of the wiring is at most 360 degrees. According to National Electric Council, you cannot bend wire for more than 360° while running it through an electric pipe.

• Water

The same things can be said about water pipelines. If you live in an area where the temperature dips down faster, you will insulate your water pipe from freezing. You can get the best advice from a professional plumber or talk to your metal building dealer about it.

Should you get gutter and trim?

This is a bit tricky. You may skip the gutter or trim if you live in a moderate climate and have a metal garage with a vertical metal panel. But installing a gutter would be crucial for those who live in heavy rain & snow areas. “Why?” you may ask.

Not just will it help you redirect all the waterfalls to drainage, but it will also keep dry out your roof quickly. Water away from your metal structure means no rusting and prolong lifespan. Plus, the gutter & trim is functional and adds aesthetics.

Installing doors and windows

A proper door and window for ventilation are vital in a home. You can choose the design according to your need. Your metal garage can be easily modified to attach a sliding window or a fixed door.

WISH LIST

Painting for metal garage

Do you want your metal building home to match the rest of the property? All you need is – a brush, roller, or paint sprayer and paint of your choice. But what kind of paint should you use on a metal panel?

First goes a metal primer. Then you can use acrylic or oil-based paints. Avoid latex paint, as it can get chipped away easily. Before painting, ensure your steel panels are clear of debris and dirt. This will help with even coating.

Do you need skylights?

Who doesn’t love natural lightning? A skylight on your ceiling would help you get extra light without adding a cent to your energy bills.

Vaulted ceilings

For an aesthetics look, you can get a vaulted ceiling. These are high and give an illusion of a larger space.

Installing AC unit

If you live in a scorching and humid climate, an AC will help maintain indoor temperature. Just ensure your metal structure home is sealed so air does not leak. Note that a wish list is something that never ends.

How Can You Use an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

• You can use it as a monthly rental unit for extra cash.
• A lovely guest bedroom would be comforting for people visiting your house.
• Do you work from home? An office unit will serve you well. You can store all your work stuff in one place.
• For the armature artist in you, a creative studio will best fit.
• Nothing can beat a self-care regime. Therefore, a gym will help you maintain your mental and physical health.

Is Having a Metal Building Home Worth It?

The short answer is – Yes. Let’s see why.

• A steel building can give you a spacious interior without any columns. You are free to design a floor plan according to your wish.
• One thing that sells metal buildings better than wooden ones is the construction and installation speed — less manpower, less labor, and less cleaning up the aftermath.
• Everyone knows how energy-efficient steel buildings are.
• With steel comes durability and longevity.
• External design can be customized to suit your personality.

AND THAT’S IT!

Now that you have seen so many pros on metal building homes, you must consider getting one or transforming your old metal building into a new cozy home. You can talk to your metal building dealer about your ideas and required design for more information. Share this blog with someone who needs tips on transforming a metal garage into a bedroom.